Sadiq Khan, mayor of London, has urged the government led by Prime Minister Andy Burnham to strengthen its dedication to climate action and reduce the nation’s dependence on fossil fuels. Khan’s appeal comes as the UK experiences a summer marked by drought conditions, wildfires, and elevated temperatures across the region.
In a written statement, Khan emphasized that the administration must reaffirm its commitment to achieving net zero emissions and demonstrate its resolve to continue decreasing reliance on oil and gas resources. The matter has drawn heightened scrutiny from within the Labour party, with multiple MPs and climate specialists expressing concern that the new administration may permit additional drilling operations in the North Sea. Since taking office, Prime Minister Burnham has been relatively silent on environmental matters, despite his vocal advocacy for climate policy during his tenure as mayor of Greater Manchester.
A critical decision regarding potential new North Sea drilling is anticipated in the coming weeks. Two major projects—the Jackdaw gasfield and the Rosebank oilfield—previously received approval under the previous government but have remained paused following legal challenges initiated by environmental organizations. Energy Secretary Miatta Fahnbulleh is expected to make determinations on these projects after environmental impact consultations are completed.
The situation reflects competing pressures on the government. Many Labour MPs fear that endorsing expanded drilling could alienate constituents experiencing extreme weather events while the Green party gains electoral support. Conversely, opposition figures and industry representatives have urged the government to pursue North Sea drilling as a solution to energy challenges. Prominent economists, including Nicholas Stern from the London School of Economics, have argued that new drilling would be detrimental to economic growth and energy security.
Khan characterized current conditions as an “era of extremes” and warned that without immediate intervention, worse consequences lie ahead. He called for renewed commitment to net zero principles and climate protection efforts across all sectors of society and governance.
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